Bulwark Takes The REAL Consequences of Shutdown Politics (w/ Mayor Quinton Lucas)
Oct 9, 2025
Mayor Quinton Lucas of Kansas City dives into the real-world consequences of the government shutdown. He addresses how over 30,000 federal workers are impacted, often working unpaid, leading to a strain on local services. Lucas highlights the plight of veterans and families relying on programs like SNAP and Medicaid. With food pantries and schools feeling the heat, he warns of greater financial strain on vulnerable households. He also critiques the ineffective deployment of the National Guard in urban areas, urging for federal collaboration on safety issues.
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Federal Workforce Anchors Regional Services
- Kansas City hosts over 30,000 federal employees across agencies like IRS, NWS, and EPA who deliver regional services.
- Quinton Lucas warns the shutdown disrupts essential federal work and regional service delivery immediately.
Workers Required To Work Unpaid
- Many federal workers are still required to show up and work without pay during the shutdown.
- Quinton Lucas calls this practice disrespectful and damaging to employees and the services they provide.
Meeting Homeless Veterans On The Front Lines
- Lucas describes meeting homeless veterans whose health care and housing supports are stalled by the shutdown.
- He stresses veterans' immediate needs and the ripple effects on families and local services.